EPS Air 1 crew recognized for awards

A local ceremony was held at city hall on Tuesday, after the Edmonton police helicopter Air 1 won some international awards this summer, including Aircrew of the Year from the Airborne Law Enforcement Association.

Recognized at city hall during a council meeting, Constable Tyler Tebbutt says it was an honour. “It’s very exciting. There are a lot of great agencies, a lot of great programs, and for our unit to be recognized, it shows a lot of dedication from our current crew members, and crew members of the past.”

Constable Chris Anderson was also named the Tactical Flight Officer of the Year. “To be recognized on the international stage for the work that we do every day, that we don’t think is exceptional, it’s good for our program. And for the city, and the citizens.”

Both awards were based on the pursuit and capture of two suspects in multiple incidents in early December 2015. “Having our unit recognized with two awards is a great honour,” said Staff Sergeant Troy Carriere. “These awards reflect the professionalism, experience and perseverance our Air 1 members bring to work every day.”

Maybe the Mayor was representing the tax payers, who pick up the tab for the police helicopter? Last time I looked no policeman could rotate fast enough to become airborne on his/her own. While their ‘effort’ is certainly commendable, it might not have been recognized in the same way had it happened on the ground. The Mayor has every right to be ‘stealing their glory’, they wouldn’t have done it without him. I hope they said so.